For the best shopping experiences in Quito, start at the Otavalo Indigenous Artisan Market, a colorful wonderland of handwoven textiles and traditional crafts. I love this market for its authentic atmosphere and fair prices – you’ll find everything from alpaca scarves to Panama hats. A great combination tour pairs Otavalo with Laguna Cuicocha, where you can bargain-hunt in the morning and enjoy mountain scenery in the afternoon.
For food lovers, the colonial district cooking classes are a special treat. You’ll shop for ingredients in local markets, then learn to prepare traditional dishes in historic settings. My favorite tour combines the Otavalo Market with Mindo Cloud Forest – perfect for mixing shopping with nature walks and bird watching.
Let’s explore the top shopping tours that make Quito so special.
Good To Know
-
Otavalo Market Tours offer immersive experiences to explore South America’s largest indigenous market, with insights into Ecuadorian culture and history.
-
Culinary Experiences in Quito provide hands-on cooking classes and local market tours, allowing visitors to learn and savor traditional Ecuadorian flavors.
-
Full-Day Excursions from Quito combine visits to Otavalo and Cotacachi markets, showcasing local crafts, textiles, and leather goods in a personalized, small-group format.
-
Unique Market Experiences include customized Otavalo Market tours with knowledgeable guides, as well as adventure and nature tours that incorporate chocolate farms and Cotopaxi Volcano.
-
Nature and Cultural Tours in Quito offer a mix of natural and cultural elements, such as Papallacta Hot Springs, Hummingbirds Farm, and Mindo Cloud Forest exploration.
Day off in Quito? Otavalo Indigenous Artisan Market Private Tour!
For a day off in Quito, the Otavalo Indigenous Artisan Market Private Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore South America’s largest market at your own pace.
Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll visit highlights like San Pablo Lake and Cascada Peguche, with the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your interests.
Enjoy brunch, lunch, and local cuisine, while learning about Ecuadorian culture and history from your knowledgeable guide.
With private transportation and a 5.0 rating from 86 reviews, this tour provides an immersive and personalized experience.
Suitable for most travelers, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic shopping experience in Quito.
Read our full review: Day off in Quito? Otavalo Indigenous Artisan Market Private Tour! Review
Book now: Check availability
Otavalo Tour From Quito Visiting Cayambe, Indigenous Market
Embark on an immersive Otavalo tour from Quito, exploring the vibrant Indigenous market and the charming town of Cayambe.
This full-day excursion showcases the largest Indigenous market in Latin America, where you’ll witness skilled artisans crafting traditional textiles and handicrafts.
Along the way, visit the equator monument, Peguche waterfall, and a local music family for a culture.
The small-group experience, with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensures personalized attention from your bilingual guide.
Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and included transportation, and savor a local lunch at your own expense.
With a 5.0 rating and 97% recommendation, this tour offers an unforgettable cultural journey.
Read our full review: Otavalo Tour From Quito Visiting Cayambe, Indigenous Market Review
Book now: Check availability
Cooking Class in Quito With Chef, Market Tour and Transportation
Quito’s vibrant culinary scene beckons travelers to enjoy a hands-on cooking experience.
For $88 per person, a 4-hour private cooking class in a historic colonial building introduces participants to Ecuadorian cuisine. The class includes a guided tour of Quito’s Central Market, where guests sample local produce and learn about regional ingredients.
Under the guidance of skilled chefs, attendees prepare three traditional dishes, from starters like quinoa soup to entrees like shrimp ceviche and coconut fish.
With a 5.0 rating from 165 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this class offers an immersive culinary journey, complete with recipes to recreate the flavors of Ecuador at home.
Read our full review: Cooking Class in Quito With Chef, Market Tour and Transportation Review
Book now: Check availability
Otavalo Market and Laguna Cuicocha Full-Day Tour From Quito
Travelers seeking a glimpse into the vibrant indigenous culture of Ecuador will delight in this full-day tour from Quito to the renowned Otavalo Market and the serene Laguna Cuicocha.
Led by a professional, bilingual guide, the tour includes transportation, lunch, and a tasting of local bizcochos. Visitors can explore the bustling market, shop for handcrafted souvenirs, and learn about the region’s traditions.
The tour also features a visit to the picturesque Laguna Cuicocha, offering scenic views and insights into the local environment.
With a maximum of 18 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized experience. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior, making it a convenient option for those planning their Quito adventure.
Read our full review: Otavalo Market and Laguna Cuicocha Full-Day Tour From Quito Review
Book now: Check availability
Otavalo Indigenous Market Private Day Trip From Quito
For those seeking a more intimate exploration of Ecuador’s indigenous culture, the Otavalo Indigenous Market Private Day Trip from Quito offers a captivating experience.
Rated 4.5 stars from 28 reviews, this full-day tour immerses visitors in the vibrant Otavalo Market, known for its handmade crafts, textiles, and leather goods.
Alongside a certified English-speaking guide, you’ll visit local workshops, take in scenic Andean vistas, and savor traditional bizcochos.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, private transportation, and optional upgrades like a visit to the artisan town of Cotacachi or Cuicocha Lake.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, this private experience allows for a more personalized and immersive encounter with Ecuadorian culture.
Read our full review: Otavalo Indigenous Market Private Day Trip From Quito Review
Book now: Check availability
The Best Otavalo Market Tour San Pablo Lake Cayambe Cotacachi
What sets the “The Best Otavalo Market Tour + San Pablo Lake + Cayambe + Cotacachi” apart from other Quito excursions is its comprehensive exploration of Ecuador’s vibrant indigenous culture and stunning natural landscapes.
Travelers rave about the professionalism and flexibility of the guides, Jean Pierre and Diego, who provide in-depth insights into the region.
The tour includes highlights like shopping at the renowned Otavalo market, visiting the Cayambe Solar Museum, and exploring the leather-making town of Cotacachi.
With private transportation, a bag of local bizcochos, and coffee included, this tour offers a well-rounded and immersive experience for $120 per person.
The 5.0 rating and 100% traveler recommendation make it a must-do activity for visitors to Quito.
Read our full review: The Best Otavalo Market Tour San Pablo Lake Cayambe Cotacachi Review
Book now: Check availability
Otavalo Indigenous Market & Peguche Waterfall
The Otavalo Indigenous Market & Peguche Waterfall tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Ecuador’s vibrant indigenous culture.
This private tour allows your group to explore the renowned Otavalo Market and the stunning Peguche Waterfall. With a knowledgeable bilingual guide, you’ll discover the market’s handicrafts, textiles, and local cuisine.
The tour also includes a stop at the Peguche Waterfall, where you can marvel at the cascading waters. Rated 5 stars by all travelers, this experience is an exceptional value at $110 per person.
With private transportation, lunch, and gratuities included, it’s a hassle-free way to learn about Ecuadorian culture. Free cancellation up to 24 hours makes this tour a flexible option for your Quito itinerary.
Read our full review: Otavalo Indigenous Market & Peguche Waterfall Review
Book now: Check availability
Cultural Tour of Otavalo: Market and Cuicocha Lagoon Visit All Inclusive
This cultural tour offers travelers a comprehensive introduction to the indigenous culture and natural wonders around Otavalo.
Operated by El Barak Ecuador Travel, the tour visits Otavalo Market and Cuicocha Lagoon for $70.50 per person. Travelers enjoy a private experience with a knowledgeable guide, private transportation, breakfast, and lunch.
With a 5.0 rating from 14 reviews, the tour is highly recommended for its engaging activities and scenic highlights, including visiting the Equator Museum and learning about traditional biscuit-making.
While some note driving comfort as an issue, the tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Otavalo’s cultural and natural attractions.
Read our full review: Cultural Tour of Otavalo: Market and Cuicocha Lagoon Visit All Inclusive Review
Book now: Check availability
Quito Old Town Private Walking Tour – Local Market – Fruits & Chocolate Tasting
Quito’s Old Town comes alive during this private walking tour, offering travelers an immersive exploration of the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Over approximately 3 hours, a professional, certified guide takes visitors through the historic district, visiting a local fruit and food market and providing a canelazo drink or chocolate tasting.
Priced from $65 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience.
Participants can expect a tailored, informative journey filled with insights into Quito’s rich history.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, this tour provides an excellent value for exploring Quito’s Old Town.
Read our full review: Quito Old Town Private Walking Tour – Local Market – Fruits & Chocolate Tasting Review
Book now: Check availability
Otavalo Market (Private Day Trip From Quito)
Embarking on a private day trip from Quito, travelers can enjoy the vibrant Otavalo Market.
Operated by Ecuador Local Guide, this tour takes visitors on a journey to explore the renowned artisan market, where they’ll discover a vast array of handicrafts, textiles, and local produce.
Priced from $113.00 per person, the tour includes a local guide, private transport, a bottle of water, and a delectable lunch.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour is perfect for those seeking a personalized shopping experience.
Wheelchair-accessible and catering only to your group, the Otavalo Market tour offers an authentic and convenient way to explore this renowned Ecuadorian destination.
Read our full review: Otavalo Market (Private Day Trip From Quito) Review
Book now: Check availability
Otavalo, Ecuador Customized Market Tour and More From Quito (Feb )
Visitors can embark on a customized market tour and more during a private full-day excursion from Quito. The tour features a focus on personal interests, with options including Otavalo Market, an Ecuadorian rose plantation, artisan workshops, a bird sanctuary, and more.
Pickup is available from central Quito hotels, with an English-speaking guide, travel insurance, and entrance fees included. The tour offers flexibility, with a start time of 7:30 am and various pickup points.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate. Priced from $85 per person, the tour has received a 5.0 rating from previous guests, praised for the guide’s knowledge and overall experience, though with mixed reviews on the Otavalo Market quality.
Read our full review: Otavalo, Ecuador Customized Market Tour and More From Quito (Feb ) Review
Book now: Check availability
Otavalo Market Experience Private Day Tour Culture and Nature
This private Otavalo Market Experience Day Tour from Quito offers travelers a chance to enjoy the vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty of the Ecuadorian highlands.
Rated 5.0 out of 6 reviews, the tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and admission fees.
Travelers will enjoy snacks, tropical fruits, and a delicious lunch during the experience.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, stroller users, and those traveling with service animals.
With a maximum group size of 3, this private tour provides a personalized experience.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Otavalo Market Experience Private Day Tour Culture and Nature Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Tour: Cooking Class in Quito Local Market Tour & Exotic Fruit Tasting
For travelers seeking to enjoy the vibrant culinary culture of Quito, the Private Tour: Cooking Class in Quito Local Market Tour & Exotic Fruit Tasting offers an exceptional opportunity.
This hands-on experience takes participants on a journey through a local market to shop for fresh ingredients before returning to the kitchen to prepare an authentic 3-course Ecuadorian meal under the guidance of a professional chef.
Priced from $89 per person, the tour includes lunch, all cooking supplies, hotel transportation, and the chance to learn about and sample exotic local fruits.
With a perfect 5.0 rating from past participants, this tour provides an unforgettable taste of Quito’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Cooking Class in Quito Local Market Tour & Exotic Fruit Tasting Review
Book now: Check availability
Guayaquil City Tour & Chocolate Farm With Typical Lunch PRIVATE Day Trip
A captivating private day trip from Guayaquil takes travelers on an immersive exploration of Cotopaxi Volcano and a renowned chocolate farm, providing a unique blend of natural wonders and culinary delights.
Priced at $249 per person, this excursion includes round-trip hotel transport, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide who shares the history, geology, and stunning vistas from 15,000 feet.
Exploring Limpiapungo Lake and riding the Aerovia cable car are highlights.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates infant seats and requires a moderate fitness level.
With 5-star reviews praising the knowledgeable guide Julio, this day trip offers an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Guayaquil City Tour & Chocolate Farm With Typical Lunch PRIVATE Day Trip Review
Book now: Check availability
Full-Day Otavalo and Cotacachi Market Tour
Travelers seeking to enjoy the vibrant Ecuadorian culture can embark on the Full-Day Otavalo and Cotacachi Market Tour.
This comprehensive tour takes visitors to the renowned Otavalo and Cotacachi markets, providing an opportunity to experience the unique artisanal crafts and local cuisine.
The tour includes comfortable round-trip transportation from two central points in Quito, a bilingual guide, and a hearty lunch in Cotacachi.
Highlights include photography at the Otavalo market and an optional boat ride on the picturesque Cuicocha Lake.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and authentic cultural experience, suitable for those with a moderate level of physical fitness.
Read our full review: Full-Day Otavalo and Cotacachi Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Otavalo Market Tour
The Otavalo Market Tour provides visitors with a captivating glimpse into the vibrant heart of Ecuadorian culture.
This guided tour from Quito offers a private experience with transportation, allowing guests to explore the renowned Otavalo Market and the scenic Laguna de Cuicocha.
Highlights include browsing the market stalls, taking in the stunning Miralago viewpoint, and visiting Cotacachi Lake and Peguche Waterfall.
The tour includes a bilingual guide, lunch, and even breakfast and tips. Priced from $180 per person, the tour offers flexible scheduling and cancellation policies, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for most travelers.
Read our full review: Otavalo Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Small-Group Otavalo Market and Middle of the World Mountain Bike Tour From Quito
On this small-group tour, visitors can combine the vibrant experience of Otavalo Market with the unique opportunity to bike to the Middle of the World Monument.
Limited to 6 travelers, the tour provides personalized attention as participants explore these two popular attractions efficiently. The tour includes lunch, soda, and hydration with local medicinal plants during the bike ride.
Led by a bilingual guide, the tour starts at 7:00 am and ends back at the meeting point in Plaza Foch, Quito.
While moderate physical fitness is required, the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions. Priced from $80 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Small-Group Otavalo Market and Middle of the World Mountain Bike Tour From Quito Review
Book now: Check availability
Otavalo Market and Cotacachi Tour Unveiled
Otavalo Market and Cotacachi Tour Unveiled
This full-day tour takes visitors to the famous Otavalo Marketplace and the town of Cotacachi. The tour departs from La Mariscal in Quito on Tuesdays and Saturdays, while hotels within the urban perimeter are pickup points on other days.
The highlights include browsing the vibrant Otavalo market, stopping at the Equator, and enjoying the scenic Andean countryside. The tour includes a bilingual guide, lunch, and any additional entrance fees.
Priced from $77 per person, this tour has received excellent reviews, with one guest describing it as having “beautiful landscape and better prices in Quito than Otavalo market.”
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour.
Read our full review: Otavalo Market and Cotacachi Tour Unveiled Review
Book now: Check availability
Unique Otavalo Market Day Tour Experience
Traversing the Pan-American highway in a private vehicle, visitors embark on a customizable day trip to the vibrant Otavalo Market.
Accompanied by a certified English-speaking guide, they’ll experience the market’s unique indigenous traditions, handicrafts, and local cuisine. The tour is wheelchair accessible and includes all fees, taxes, and drinks.
Travelers have the flexibility to visit the rural parish of Pecuche and explore the lesser-known Imbabura Volcano foothills. With a 5.0 rating, the tour offers exceptional value, allowing for free cancellation and a reserve-now-pay-later option.
Guidance from the experienced tour guide Ximena ensures a memorable shopping experience at the market.
Read our full review: Unique Otavalo Market Day Tour Experience Review
Book now: Check availability
Ecuadorian Highlands Adventure: Rose Plantation & Market Tour
Departing from Quito, the Otavalo Indian Market and Rose Farm Shared Tour transports visitors on a captivating exploration of Ecuador’s Highlands.
Priced at $79 per person, this full-day adventure offers private transportation, a bilingual guide, and a range of inclusions like the Crater Lake entrance fee and a delectable lunch.
Highlights include browsing the vibrant Otavalo Market and immersing oneself in the serene beauty of a local rose plantation.
Accessible to most travelers, the tour can accommodate strollers but isn’t wheelchair-friendly.
With an impressive 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, this tour promises an enriching and memorable Ecuadorian experience.
Read our full review: Ecuadorian Highlands Adventure: Rose Plantation & Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Roses & Otavalo Market Tour Unveiled
Enjoy the vibrant tapestry of Otavalo’s legendary market, where the rich cultural heritage of Ecuador’s Highlands comes alive.
This private tour whisks you away from Quito to the bustling Otavalo market, the largest in South America. Along the way, stop at a rose plantation to witness the vibrant blooms.
Your all-inclusive experience features private transportation, a guide-driver, entry permits, alcoholic beverages, and a delectable lunch. Pickup is available from the Quito airport, and you can choose from multiple locations.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour offers unparalleled convenience. Rated 5 out of 5 stars by past guests, this Roses & Otavalo Market Tour is a must-do for any Quito shopping excursion.
Read our full review: Roses & Otavalo Market Tour Unveiled Review
Book now: Check availability
Otavalo Market and Mindo Cloud Forest Tour 3-Day 2-Night
For a captivating 3-day, 2-night adventure, travelers can embark on the Otavalo Market-Mindo Cloud Forest Tour.
Operated by Real Dreams Tour, this private excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of Quito’s vibrant markets and the lush Mindo Cloud Forest. The tour includes private transportation, a bilingual guide, lunch, and entrance fees, with pickup and drop-off in the Quito Metropolitan Area.
Highlights include the renowned Otavalo Market, known for its colorful textiles and handicrafts, and the serene Mindo Cloud Forest, where visitors can discover cascading waterfalls.
With an overall 5-star rating based on positive reviews, this tour provides an immersive cultural and natural experience in Ecuador.
Read our full review: Otavalo Market and Mindo Cloud Forest Tour 3-Day 2-Night Review
Book now: Check availability
Papallacta Hot Springs and Hummingbirds Farm Day Tour
Travelers embarking on the Papallacta Hot Springs and Hummingbirds Farm Day Tour will discover a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences.
This private tour, starting from Quito, provides a comprehensive package that includes private transportation, a certified bilingual guide, and all necessary fees and taxes.
Visitors can enjoy the rejuvenating waters of the Papallacta Hot Springs and explore the enchanting Hummingbirds Farm, where they can observe these remarkable creatures up close.
Lunch is included, and guests have the option to indulge in additional treatments or massages.
With a five-star rating and no negative reviews, this tour offers a truly remarkable and accessible experience for most travelers.
Read our full review: Papallacta Hot Springs and Hummingbirds Farm Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Tour to Mindo With Hummingbird Reserve, Tarabita and Butterfly Farm
Embarking on the Private Tour to Mindo, visitors can expect a captivating blend of natural wonders and culture.
The tour includes a visit to the Hummingbird Reserve, where guests can witness the mesmerizing aerial displays of these tiny creatures.
The Tarabita, a thrilling cable car ride, offers panoramic views of the lush Mindo valley.
The Butterfly Farm showcases a vibrant array of colorful species.
Priced from $130 per person, the tour provides private transportation, a bilingual guide, and all necessary tickets and fees.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the experience is suitable for most travelers.
With a perfect 5-star rating from a single review, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Ecuador’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Private Tour to Mindo With Hummingbird Reserve, Tarabita and Butterfly Farm Review
Book now: Check availability
Quito Oldtown: A Cultural-Gastro Walking Tour and Shopping
Quito’s historic Oldtown beckons visitors with a captivating cultural-gastronomic walking tour that promises an immersive experience.
The 5-hour tour, priced at $39.92 per person, is highly recommended by 100% of travelers and boasts a 5.0 overall rating. Participants will enjoy tastings of local delicacies like empanadas, chocolate, and liquors, as well as breakfast or lunch.
The tour also includes entry fees to renowned sites such as the Basílica del Voto Nacional, Fundación La Compañia de Jesús, and Museo San Francisco.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience, departing from Parque Gabriel García Moreno and concluding at the renowned Yumbos Chocolate shop.
Convenient public transportation access and a free cancellation policy make this tour an enticing option for those seeking to discover Quito’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.
Read our full review: Quito Oldtown: A Cultural-Gastro Walking Tour and Shopping Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Way to Get to the Otavalo Market From Quito?
The best way to get to Otavalo Market from Quito is to take a public bus. Buses run regularly and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, visitors can join a guided tour, which provides transportation and a knowledgeable guide.
Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions for the Otavalo Market Tours?
There are typically no age or mobility restrictions for Otavalo market tours. However, visitors should be aware that the market requires walking, so those with limited mobility may find it challenging. It’s best to check with tour operators for specific details.
Can I Customize the Otavalo Market Tour to Fit My Interests?
Yes, you can customize the Otavalo market tour to fit your interests. Many tour operators offer flexible itineraries, allowing you to focus on the areas or products that most appeal to you during your visit.
What Is the Process for Booking a Private Cooking Class in Quito?
To book a private cooking class in Quito, travelers can contact local cooking schools or tour providers. They’ll discuss their interests and dietary needs, then the school will customize a class to suit the traveler’s preferences. Payment is typically required upfront to secure the booking.
What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Otavalo Market Tours?
For Otavalo market tours, visitors should wear comfortable, casual clothing. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended to stay cool while exploring the bustling outdoor marketplace. Closed-toe shoes are advised for walking on uneven terrain.
The Sum Up
Quito offers a variety of shopping tours catering to different interests. From the vibrant Otavalo Indigenous Artisan Market to the historical Quito Old Town, travelers can enjoy the local culture and purchase unique handcrafts. Plus, day trips to nearby attractions like Mindo Cloud Forest and Papallacta Hot Springs provide opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty. With so many options, visitors can tailor their shopping experience to their preferences.